The Philippine Ports Authority has awarded a P704.62-million contract to modernize the Basco port in Batanes to Goldridge Construction and Development Corp., advancing infrastructure development in the country’s northernmost province.

In a notice of award dated 10 February, the agency said the Bataan-based firm submitted the lowest bid among five proponents. The contract covers the rehabilitation and upgrading of the port facility, including the construction of a reinforced concrete pier and a designated port operations area.

The contractor has 900 calendar days from receipt of the notice to complete the project.

Basco port serves as a primary gateway for goods and travelers to Batanes, supporting trade, tourism and inter-island connectivity. The planned improvements are expected to enhance operational efficiency and stimulate economic activity in the province.

The upgrade comes as the PPA projects continued growth in cargo and passenger volumes.

The agency reported that cargo throughput reached 307.64 million metric tons in 2025, exceeding its target and posting a 6.3 percent increase from the previous year.

For 2026, total cargo volume is projected to rise by 4.03 percent to 320.94 million metric tons, driven largely by foreign cargo movements.

Container traffic is also expected to grow by 3.94 percent to 8.88 million twenty-foot equivalent units, while passenger numbers are forecast to increase by 5.78 percent to 87.26 million this year.